Ethnic armed group members, PDFs, return to legal fold

 

The State Administration Council is extending an invitation to those involved in various armed groups, including the PDF, to return to the legal fold. Those who do so are being provided with necessary assistance and support. Moreover, individuals who returned to the legal fold with arms and ammunition are being offered specific cash rewards.

Furthermore, some members of terrorist groups under the name of PDF, as well as certain ethnic armed group members who support violence, have carried out terror acts under the pretence of acting for the people, when in reality these actions serve their interests. These include acts of intimidation and killing of civilians, including students and children, as well as planting landmines and bombing public places, schools, hospitals, and roads and bridges. As a result of these terrorist actions, they have lost the support of the public. In addition, internal conflicts such as abuse of power, coercion, and the commission of unlawful acts have become prevalent within their groups. Due to these issues, many have become disillusioned and are now willing to return to the legal fold.

Tatmadaw, in its efforts to ensure the peaceful livelihood of the people, has been conducting Counter-Terrorism Operations in respective Military Command areas. On 16 July, Tatmadaw was able to regain full control of the Taungkham area and Nawnghkio, which had temporarily been occupied by terrorists. As a result, people have expressed renewed trust and confidence in Tatmadaw, showing strong and active support. They have begun providing timely intelligence to nearby Tatmadaw columns, cooperating with Tatmadaw, and rejecting the terrorist acts of the terrorists, who have lost public support. Due to the loss of public support and growing disillusionment with their actions, some members of ethnic armed groups and PDF groups have come to understand and accept the true stance of the State and Tatmadaw. Consequently, they are now contacting nearby Tatmadaw bases and authorities in their respective Military Command areas and are returning to the legal fold.

According to reports, a total of 14 individuals – 12 men and two women—have returned to the legal fold. This includes four male members from the TNLA, five male members from the DPLA, and three men and two women from the MDY-PDF. These individuals chose to abandon the path of armed struggle due to their desire to live peacefully within the framework of the law and their trust and acceptance of Tatmadaw’s peace initiatives. They returned to the legal fold through nearby Tatmadaw bases and were accepted by responsible officials, who provided the necessary assistance and support. They were then handed over to their respective parents or guardians.

There are still individuals who wish to return to the legal fold. Those who intend to do so are encouraged to promptly contact and report to the nearest district or township administration bodies, Tatmadaw bases, or police stations. They will be welcomed and accepted, provided with the necessary assistance and support, and cash rewards for any arms and ammunition.

MNA/TTA

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